O2 Telefónica tests quantum for mobile network security

O2 Telefónica has launched a pilot project integrating quantum technologies into its mobile network to explore their potential for improving performance and advancing security standards for future data transmission.

The initiative, in collaboration with Telefónica SA, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Telefónica Tech, and the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM), aims to address complex computational challenges and test quantum-resistant encryption techniques.

Quantum computing’s ability to solve intricate problems offers opportunities to optimise mobile infrastructure. In one part of the project, a quantum computer in Boston, accessed via Amazon Braket, is used to calculate the optimal placement of O2 Telefónica’s cell towers in Munich. This task involves evaluating billions of potential configurations while balancing coverage, interference, and geographic obstacles.

By using quantum-assisted calculations, the project aims to enhance the deployment efficiency of 5G and future 6G networks, streamline operations, and improve digital services.

O2 Secures Data with Quantum-Resistant Encryption

The project also focuses on securing mobile networks against future decryption capabilities of advanced quantum computers. Two approaches are being tested:

• Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): Cryptographic algorithms designed to withstand quantum computational power.
• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): An additional security layer enabling defence-in-depth (DiD) protection of sensitive communication channels, including data centres and satellite links.

“We are taking proactive steps to ensure that our network remains resilient in the quantum era. Implementing these technologies in the cloud allows us to combine security with efficiency, laying the foundation for secure mobile communications in the 6G era,” said Mallik Rao, Chief Technology & Enterprise Officer at O2 Telefónica.

Global Collaboration and Future Implications

The pilot builds on Telefónica’s decade-long research in quantum technologies, utilising the AWS cloud infrastructure and advanced tools developed by Nokia. Data from the quantum computations is securely transmitted from the US to Europe using PQC encryption.

The EU Commission has endorsed the move to quantum-safe encryption, emphasising its importance in safeguarding critical communications. The findings from O2 Telefónica’s project are expected to inform the development of future 6G networks, particularly regarding cross-border and satellite data transmissions.

“This project demonstrates the integration of quantum technology into complex telecommunications networks, ensuring secure and efficient operations for real-world applications,” said Vicente Martin, Head of the Quantum Information Research Group at UPM.

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